Evaluation of mechanical properties of Banyan/glass fiber reinforced epoxy composites

Abstract

In this work, we prepared a fiber reinforced composite made of banyan fiber, glass fiber, and epoxy resin (LY 556). Hand layup technique is opted for the fabrication of composites. First, pure epoxy composites were tested, and then banyan and glass fiber reinforcement were done in proportions of 10%, 20%, and 30%. Banyan fiber and glass fiber are mixed in a 1:1 ratio, that is if 10% fiber is added, 5% of banyan and 5% of glass fiber, similar for 20% and 30%. Fibers are placed in a longitudinal direction, and epoxy is cured with a hardener (HY 951). Tensile and flexural tests were performed using a standard Tensometer. Impact tester made from International Equipments, Mumbai was used for impact testing. To ensure accurate results, we made 15 samples of each composition, five for tensile, five for flexural and five for impact. The testing resulted in good and productive results.